Describe some similarities and differences in the structures of a saturated fatty acid and an unsaturated fatty acid.

Dietary guidelines suggest we limit our intake of butter due to the cholesterol content and substitute oils or margarine. The following table shows the major fatty acid distribution for a typical stick of margarine and also for butter. Values are percentages.

c. Which is likely to contain fewer trans-fatty acids

Are the carbon–carbon double bonds in naturally occurring fatty acids primarily cis or trans?

What is the difference in the location of the first double bond in an omega-3 and an omega-6 fatty acid (see Chemistry Link to Health “Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Fish Oils”)?

 Identify each of the following as a saturated, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, omega-3, or omega-6 fatty acid:

a.

Draw the line-angle formula for each of the following fatty acids:

a. palmitic acid

For each of the following fatty acids, give the shorthand notation for the number of carbon atoms and double bonds, and classify as saturated, monounsaturated, or polyunsaturated:

a. lauric acid

For each of the following fatty acids, give the shorthand notation for the number of carbon atoms and double bonds, and classify as saturated, monounsaturated, or polyunsaturated:

a. linoleic acid

How does the structure of a fatty acid with a cis double bond differ from the structure of a fatty acid with a trans double bond?